Upper Back Pain is one of the most common types of pain that people experience. Here are six signs that your upper back pain might be something more serious!
Upper back pain is one of the most common types of pain, and it can be caused by various things. While most cases of upper back pain are not severe, there are a few signs that you should watch out for to ensure that your pain is not indicative of a more severe problem. This blog post will discuss six signs that your upper back pain might be something more serious and when you should seek medical attention. But first, let’s discuss some common causes of upper back pain.
What Causes Upper Back Pain?
Several things can cause upper back pain, from bad posture to a slipped disc. One of the most common causes of upper back pain is poor posture. Sitting or standing for long periods with poor posture can put a lot of strain on your back muscles and ligaments. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and even inflammation. Another common cause of upper back pain is a slipped disc. This happens when one of the discs in your spine becomes herniated or ruptured. A slipped disc can be very painful and can even lead to paralysis if not treated properly.
So, now that we’ve discussed some common causes of upper back pain let’s look at six signs that your upper back pain might be something more serious.
Six Signs Your Upper Back Pain Is Serious Trouble
Suppose you experience any of the following six signs. In that case, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible, as they could indicate a more serious problem.
Pain That Radiates Down Your Arms or Legs
Not all upper back pain originates from the muscles and joints in that area. If your pain is accompanied by radiating symptoms down your arm or leg, it could be indicative of a problem with your spine. For example, a herniated disc can cause pain radiating down your leg. If you’re experiencing this type of pain, it’s essential to see a doctor as soon as possible, as a herniated disc can worsen and cause permanent damage.
Numbness or Tingling in Your Arms or Legs
It might be an indication of scoliosis if you have numbness or tingling in your arms or legs coupled with upper back discomfort. It is a condition that causes the spine to curve to the side and can put pressure on the nerves running through the spine. If you have this condition, you may also notice that your shoulders are not level or that your hips seem to be at different heights. There are various scoliosis treatments available depending on the severity of the condition.
Weakness in Your Arms or Legs
If your upper back pain is accompanied by weakness or numbness in your arms or legs, it could be a sign of a serious problem. This is especially true if the weakness is on one side of your body. While upper back pain can radiate into your arms and legs, it’s usually not accompanied by weakness or numbness. If it is, it’s a good idea to see a doctor and find out what’s going on.
Difficulty Breathing
If you find it hard to take a deep breath or you’re struggling to catch your breath, this could be a sign that your upper back pain is serious. It could be a sign of a condition called pleurisy, which is an inflammation of the lining of the lungs. This condition can also cause sharp pain when you take a deep breath. If you’re struggling to breathe, it’s essential to see a doctor right away.
Fever or Night Sweats
With any type of infection, you may experience a fever or night sweats. If your upper back pain is accompanied by these symptoms, it’s time to seek medical attention. An infection in your spine can cause serious damage and may even require surgery to correct. So, if you have an infection, getting it treated as soon as possible is important.
Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control
While upper back pain can be debilitating, it is usually not a sign of something more serious. However, if you experience loss of bladder or bowel control, this could be a sign of spinal cord compression. This is a severe condition that can cause paralysis. You should seek medical attention right away if you experience this symptom.
Now that you know six signs that your upper back pain might be more serious, you can seek treatment if necessary. If you experience any of these symptoms, you must see a doctor immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing serious complications.